A cast of more than 50 performers are coming together to show off their skills at the Castlemaine Fringe’s Fantastico Variety Show this Saturday at the Castlemaine Town Hall.
With a great mix of theatrical acts and colourful costumes, opera, soul, folk and funk the cast has performers ranging from age eight to (well, we won’t say how old they are!).
The evening promises to be fun for all ages and there will be something for everyone, including prizes, games and what fringe fundraiser could go ahead without a raffle!
Among the performers will be talented local guitarist Bens Smith of My Old Guitar in Barker Street and his mate fellow guitarist and Castlemaine Highland Pipe Band sidedrum Joe Smith.
“I’ve had my store about six years now and Joe and I have been enjoying a regular jam for most of that time,” Bens said.
“We look first to our first official gig together at Fantastico,” Joe said.
The talented local duo have been working hard to perfect their set with lots of rehearsals and have a killer ‘encore’ lined up should the crowd demand it.
Bens will be on acoustic guitar and Joe on electric. In fact, Bens may even allow Joe to pull out his Fender Strat for the special show!
Bens, who is delighted to once again be busy providing sound equipment for live gigs across the region, prides himself on fostering local talent and says Fantastico will be a great opportunity for local performers to share their gifts before a friendly and supportive audience.
“It will be amazing to play live again after such a long COVID-enforced absence,” he said.
Castlemaine Fringe Festival’s Azzy Jay said the event would be a key fundraiser for their biennial festival.
“This show will bring in some much-needed funds, ensuring Fringe can put on free gigs throughout the festival in March 2023, pay our incredible local performers and techies!” Azzy said.
“If you’d like to offer support by volunteering on the night we would love to hear from you!”
To assist as a volunteer, email castlemainefringefestival@gmail.com and to get your Fantastico tickets, head to www.trybooking.com/BXBEF
